Globally, breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer amongst women in both the developed and developing world. In 2010 alone, more than 1.5 million women were diagnosed with breast cancer with an estimated 10.9% of the world's total female population affected. Locally, one in 29 South African women are impacted with an estimated 3000 dying from the disease each year.
Numerous studies have linked prolonged exposure to both endogenous (occurs naturally within the body) and exogenous (externally administered) oestrogen to breast cancer. In fact, research has consistently found that women who use Hormone Replacement Therapies (HRTs), typically prescribed to offset menopause symptoms, for five years or more increase their risk of breast cancer by approximately 35%.
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